15 Best Performing Dividend Stocks So Far in 2025

12. General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD)

YTD Performance as of September 15: 25.4%

General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD) has a strong lineup of defense products, acting as the US government’s main supplier of tanks and heavy land vehicles, while also operating shipyards that build destroyers and nuclear-powered submarines. The company has lagged in performance in recent years for reasons unrelated to its defense operations. However, the stock has surged by over 25% since the start of 2025, which makes it one of the best performing stocks that pay dividends.

General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD) also owns Gulfstream, one of the leading makers of business jets worldwide. That segment struggled for nearly a decade to rebound after the 2008–09 recession, which weighed on overall results and left the company trailing behind peers that are more heavily focused on defense. The company is also a major IT provider for the government, overseeing networks and handling classified projects for the Pentagon, intelligence agencies, and various civil departments.

General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD) has been grabbing investors’ attention because of its solid dividend policy. The company has been growing its payouts for 28 consecutive years. Currently, it offers a quarterly dividend of $1.50 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.84%, as of September 15.